Monday, 8 February 2010

Garmin eTrex Vista HCx

After tons of research on multi-purpose GPSs, I went with the Vista hcX and i'm very glad I did. Upon receiving the hcx, it took maybe 20 minutes or so to get a feel for the thing. The manual is not much help, so with some trial and error I was able to figure out the main commands like using the navigation for cars and "Tracks" for hikes/runs/cycling. What was a little confusing is how to start a new session (i.e - for a run/hike).

Garmin eTrex Vista HCx

I could get a good signal under tree cover, unlike before, and even a fix inside my one-storey house, despite it not having the new SirF3 chip. I was in two minds about upgrading to the HCx model, as the only gain would be an even more sensitive receiver (but a slightly poorer battery life). So, I opted to change from the Legend to the Vista to increase functionallity. I think it was a good choice because the extra sensitivity, and quicker processing speed, seems significant and worthwhile.

{The unit was located in many places - in hand, in the cup holder of a van, in a zipped fanny pack, clipped to a belt, and at lunch, on the table at a tavern - not a problem, never lost signal. :) My last unit was a Garmin Vista Cx - this unit is MUCH better - better lock and faster draw. |I made sure to have a compass too!!!
Then I upgraded to a

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